How Long Does a Commissioned Artwork Take?
How Long Does a Commissioned Artwork Take?
Most people see the final result, the finished artwork hanging proudly on a wall, but very few see the real time investment behind it. Commissioned art isn’t made in a rush. It’s designed, shaped, layered, corrected, refined, and brought to life through a process that demands patience.
Clients often ask me:
“How long does a commissioned artwork take?”
And the answer isn’t exactly a number, it’s the journey.
A commission isn’t just paint and canvas. It’s the translation of someone’s vision into something physical and unforgettable. That takes time, and every stage matters.
Below, I’ll break down what truly shapes the timeline of a commissioned artwork, from first conversation to final signature.
The Average Timeline
Most commissioned artworks take anywhere from 2 to 12 weeks.
Why such a wide range? Because every commission is unique. Some pieces are quiet and minimal. Others are complex, layered, textured, or large-scale.
But let’s dive deeper.
1. The Creative Consultation (1–5 days)
It all begins with your story. I ask questions about:
colour preferences
emotional tone
scale
interior style
reference ideas
personal meaning
This stage is where the direction becomes clear and the artwork begins to take shape in my mind.
2. Concept + Sketch Creation (3–14 days)
Next comes the planning phase. I create digital mock-ups or sketches so you can visualise the artwork before paint touches canvas. Getting this part right prevents delays later on.
The more complex the idea, the longer the design stage.
3. Securing Materials (1–7 days)
Premium materials take time to source. For luxury commissions, I often use:
museum-grade canvas
high pigment acrylics
gold elements
custom stencils
graffiti tools
Quality adds time, but also longevity.
4. Painting the Artwork (7–60+ days)
This is where the real magic happens. Depending on the project, painting may involve:
layered backgrounds
drying time between coats
intricate line work
portrait detailing
highlights + shadows
stencil phases
corrections + texture shaping
Some commissions move fast. Others require slow precision.
The goal isn’t speed, it’s greatness.
5. Drying, Sealing + Finishing (3–21 days)
Once a work is complete, it must stabilise. Sealing protects the painting from:
UV damage
dust
smudging
moisture
The artwork must be 100% ready to live on someone’s wall for decades.
Why You Don’t Want Fast Art
It’s tempting to rush. But rushed art looks rushed.
Commissioned artwork is not about instant results, it’s about lasting value.
Asko Art represents precision, elegance, boldness, and time-honoured craft. My clients choose quality over speed.
The Secret Truth Behind the Timeline
Most of the time spent on artwork isn’t the physical painting.
It’s the mental creation.
The vision.
The decisions.
The edits.
The perfection.
And that part cannot be timed.
FAQ — Commissioned Artwork Timelines
Can I request a deadline?
Yes, depending on the scale and current schedule.
What slows down the process?
Complexity, layers, drying time, precision and size.
Do murals take longer than canvas pieces?
It totally depends on the size and design,
Is quicker possible?
Sometimes.
Can I see progress during the process?
Absolutely! I share updates so you feel part of the journey.
Final Thoughts
Commissioned art takes time for a reason: it must be personal, powerful, and enduring. It has to mean something. And once it’s finished, that meaning lives forever.
If you’re thinking about commissioning your own artwork, you’re welcome to reach out through contact.
— Asko Art
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